A majestic Monkeypod Tree in Ala Moana Park... can you find the King? This collage painting captures a moment from an unforgettable stroll in Ala Moana Park in Honolulu, Hawaii. I stopped beneath an amazing tree to chat with a local about the history of the park. We spent a half an hour talking about how the land was built up with rocks and imported dirt and trees planted. The local lost his favorite surfing spot, but gained a tranquil park in its place. He was not the only one enjoying the shade that afternoon....nestled in a throne of roots sat a very regal figure, ruling his empire with a velvet paw. If you look closely, you will see him: his robe blends in with the surroundings.
I used ephemera collected on that trip to paint and incorporate into the collage: receipts, newspaper articles, TheBus schedules, wrapping paper, tourist information in Japanese and Korean and take-out menus. The cat was painted on watercolor paper and added into his throne.